The 5 Best Running Routes in Central London

London is one of the greenest capital cities in the world, with nearly 40% of its area covered by parks, gardens and waterways. For runners, that means miles of car-free paths, stunning scenery and a route for every mood. Here are our five favourites in Central London.

1. Regent's Park and the Canal Towpath

Start at Camden Lock and head along the Regent's Canal towpath - a peaceful, car-free path that winds through Little Venice, past colourful narrowboats and under old brick bridges. When you reach Regent's Park, join the Outer Circle for a 4.3km loop through beautiful gardens. For a bonus, add the climb up Primrose Hill for one of the best panoramic views of the London skyline. Distance: 8-10km depending on how far you follow the canal.

2. The South Bank to Tower Bridge

Begin at Westminster Bridge and head east along the South Bank. You'll pass the London Eye, Tate Modern, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and finish at Tower Bridge. It's flat, mostly pedestrianised, and the views across the Thames are spectacular. Distance: about 5km one way.

3. The Regent's Canal to Victoria Park

Pick up the Regent's Canal towpath at Angel or King's Cross and head east through Haggerston, past the houseboats of Broadway Market, and into Victoria Park - the "People's Park" of East London. The canal path is flat, traffic-free and full of character - street art, lock gates, waterside cafes. Victoria Park itself has a great 5km loop. This is the route if you want to see a different side of London. Distance: 8-12km depending on your start point.

4. The Thames Path - Putney to Hammersmith

This is our West London River Run route. Follow the Thames towpath from Putney Bridge through Barnes, past the London Wetlands Centre, and across Hammersmith Bridge. It's quieter than central routes, mostly car-free, and feels like you've escaped the city entirely. Distance: about 10km as a loop.

5. The Iconic London Route - Trafalgar Square Loop

This is our signature tour route. Start at Trafalgar Square, run past 10 Downing Street, Big Ben, through St James's Park to Buckingham Palace, up through Green Park and Hyde Park, past the Italian Gardens and Albert Memorial, then loop back. You'll see more of London in 90 minutes than most tourists see in a day. Distance: 10km.

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